Focus on Heart
Health

February is a
time when love is in the air. It is also
American Heart Month. While you’re thinking of
hearts this Valentine’s Day, do yourself - and
your loved ones - a favor: focus on your own
heart.

Heart disease is
the number one killer in America. Nearly 2,400
Americans die each day from it. About
one in three Americans has one or more kinds of
heart disease.

One common type
is coronary artery disease. This occurs when the
arteries that bring blood to your heart muscle
become blocked or narrowed. When that happens,
it is hard for blood and oxygen to reach your
heart.

If you have
coronary artery disease, you are at risk for a
heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. If you
feel chest pain or tightness in your chest when
you do any physical activity or exercise, you
may have what doctors call angina. This is a
warning sign you shouldn’t ignore.

There is no cure
for coronary artery disease, but some medicines
can help protect you from heart attacks and
other heart conditions that can be deadly. If
you have or are worried that you might have
coronary artery disease or another heart
problem, it is important to contact your doctor
immediately. Together, you can determine how to
protect yourself from future problems.

ACE inhibitors
and ARBs usually treat high blood pressure but
also appear to help people with stable coronary
heart disease. The guide lays out the pros and
cons of adding ACE inhibitors or ARBs to other
medicines. Here are some highlights:

Both
medicines can reduce the risk for death,
heart attacks, and heart failure.

Possible
side effects of ACE inhibitors include a
persistent cough, sudden fainting, and other
problems. Risks associated with both ACE
inhibitors and ARBs include problems with
the heart’s beat and sudden swelling of the
tongue, lips, throat, hands, or feet.

There are
several ACE inhibitors and ARBs available.
Finding the right one depends on balancing
the benefits, side effects, and costs.

You can lower
your risk of heart attack, heart failure, and
stroke by following familiar advice: lose weight
if you are overweight, exercise regularly, eat
foods that are low in fat and cholesterol, and
do not smoke. As we all know, sometimes the
basics are easier said than done. Here are steps
you can take for your heart’s health:

Do regular
physical exercise tailored to your
abilities, needs, and interests. Exercise
doesn’t have to involve training for a
marathon. Even walking can help. Ask a
friend, colleague, or family member to join
you in your efforts.

Learn about
your heart problem, its causes and
treatments, and how you can manage it. The
resources listed below are good places to
start.

Get advice
on why and how to change your lifestyle to
lower your risk of heart disease. Start by
asking your doctor or other health care
provider.

Learn
specific skills to help you stop unhealthy
behaviors (such as smoking) and begin
healthy behaviors, including eating a
heart-healthy diet.

February is a
great time to think about your heart health and
how you can prevent heart disease. Take the
first steps for a longer, healthier life.

I’m Dr. Carolyn
Clancy, and that’s my advice on how to navigate
the health care system.